Matera holds the secrets of the authentic culinary tradition of Basilicata. The simple and essential “cucina povera” (poor man’s cuisine) and the typical dishes that tell the story of this place are now paired with new flavors and innovative approaches. Cutting-edge cocktails in trendy bistros have become part of the local lifestyle, which is increasingly filled with something different, unexpected, and unique.

The city offers a gourmet experience that truly meets all kinds of preferences (try our Matera Food Tour).

Here are our recommendations for the best places to eat and enjoy great drinks in Matera.

Not your typical restaurant. A gourmet experience in a stunning location, perfect for special occasions.

⚑ via Pennino 28 Matera

Ideal for lunches and aperitifs. “Crapiate,” traditional legume salads, but above all, delicious local cheeses and cured meats will brighten your evenings in the beautiful and charming Piazza Sedile.

⚑ Via delle Beccherie/Piazza Sedile corner

    

One of the best restaurants in Matera. Very good wine labels and excellent quality food, presented in an elegant and creative way. An elegant yet warm place. Informal but refined.

⚑ Via delle Beccherie/Piazza Sedile corner

The scent of home cooking, the flavours of recipes handed down through the generations and the informal atmosphere of beautiful dinners.

⚑ Via D’Addozio Matera (Sasso Barisano)

A place that takes you back in time, while embracing contemporary cuisine in a simple way. The philosophy of Malatesta instills the tranquility of a place where meals are not just consumed, but where you sit at the table for the joy of conviviality.

⚑ Via San Biagio 45 Matera

Born from the desire to share the culture and food and wine heritage of the region, Agriristories offertastings of authentic products that can be purchased on-site or online.

⚑ Via Sette Dolori Matera

Pizza and “puccia” at their best thanks to Chef Danilo Schiuma, who adds a gourmet touch to the typical offerings of Matera’s street food.

⚑ Via S. Biagio Matera

A historic venue in the Sasso Caveoso, one of the first to believe in the revival of the ancient districts, Morgan started as a pirate-themed pub, known for its stunning bar, excellent quality and variety of rum, and superb entrecote. In recent years, under the same management, it has transformed into a restaurant that still prides itself on quality. Alongside traditional Lucanian cuisine, it offers excellent long-fermentation pizzas.

⚑ Via B. Buozzi 2 Matera

⚑ Via Casalnuovo 15 Matera

A historic venue that has always been able to reinvent itself, also catering to the refined enthusiasts of haute cuisine. Aperitifs and splendid outdoor dinners featuring delicacies and excellent drinks.

⚑ Vico Purgatorio 12 Matera

Designed by the Belgian studio Architecten De Vylder Vinck Taillieu, this stunning design space stands out in a typical location in the heart of the Sassi of Matera. The traditional element of the cave-cistern meets architecture, design, and an excellent cellar of national and international wines.

⚑ Via B. Buozzi Matera

An elegant bistro where the care of the wonderful managers, the gourmet delights, and the sophisticated touch of interior light design will make your evenings far from the boredom of daily routines. The charming balcony overlooking the picturesque little square is simply delightful!

⚑ Piazza S. Giovanni Matera

In one of the most charming corners of the Sassi of Matera, between the courtyard and vintage-style interiors, Vicolo Cieco offers excellent cocktails, aperitifs, and a fantastic reinterpretation of the famous “cialledda,” a traditional salad made with local bread. Not-to-be-missed!

⚑ Via Fiorentini (Sasso Barisano) Matera

Ideal to combine great food and excellent craft beer in a truly charming little square in Matera, nestled in one of the city’s most chic historic streets, Via delle Beccherie..

⚑ Via delle Beccherie Matera

For connoisseurs and lovers of quality beer, Groove offers an abundance of choices. Excellent meat menu!

⚑ Via Roma Matera

Located in the heart of one of the most lively, elegant, and sophisticated streets in the city—Via Ridola—it’s the perfect meeting spot for a quick lunch, an aperitif, a snack, or an informal meeting. Certainly much more than a Starbucks made in Matera, with its delicious homemade croissants, smoothies, and cocktails served with toasted bread!

⚑ Via Ridola Matera

⚑ Piazza S. Giovanni Matera

The 1920s-style interiors give this small corner an irresistibly bohemian vibe. Cocktails, charcuterie boards, and sandwiches are served with smiles from the owners. Gay-friendly!

⚑ Via Casalnuovo Matera

Not just beer and food, but also cocktails and an explosion of music that give this place a slightly “Irish” vibe. A must-try!

⚑ Vico II Don Minzoni 2 Matera

Cocktail art, aperitifs, and live music are the ingredients for enjoying pleasant evenings in one of the top spots for great drinks in Matera!

⚑ Via Lucana 238

All the featured venues come alive with weekly events, and you can find the best ones on the online guide Matera Events!